Finishing a Clock

This is a really a rookie question,and I am not a rookie, but I am stumped. I have made a number of walnut clocks. I finish them with Watco walnut, let it sit a month then spray on a poly finish. This clock is a new to me style. It has maple accents. I want to maintain the maximum contrast between the two wood to make it dramatic. The maple accents are simply 4 pieces glued to the front. ( Sorry I forgot to take photos and I am out of town.)

I have been planning on staining the walnut with conventional stain, then glue the accent strips on and apply the poly…..I am seeking advice. I want that rich look of walnut, and a light maple look. Is this a good method? I am really afraid of “assembly marks”.

I am not locked into any one method….please let me know your suggestion. The clock is complete but still in sections.Thanks in advance for your help.Mike aka Moke

2 replies so far

I don’t see a problem with your proposed method. My only suggestion is that you might want to try a water-based poly if you are trying to keep the maple as light as possible. As I’m sure you know, oil-based poly tends to give a slightly yellow tint to light-colored woods. Water-based clear finishes are considerably clearer, in my experience.